Ever hear of or see the movie Charlie? It was a book first (flowers for Algernon). It's probably the most heart wrenching story you'll ever read. I would say pick that up first and read it now. It's written in journal form so each "chapter" is pretty short

What I'm a little concerned with is that my tips will be thicker than my roots with all the knotting and looping going on in my hair. I know you are further along than I am and was wondering if you have noticed that in your dreads or if the roots thicken up as they grow. Hope you don't mind me asking.